OPINION - Bridging borders: Türkiye’s contributions to food security and humanitarian diplomacy

• Türkiye’s contributions to food security, from addressing domestic needs to engaging in global initiatives, reflect its significant potential in advancing humanitarian values and international solidarity
• From its immediate region to crisis-stricken areas, like Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen, Türkiye has extended its reach, offering vital contributions to alleviate hunger and promote stability
• Positioned at the crossroads of continents, Türkiye’s strategic location and strong agricultural capacity have established it as a pivotal player in addressing urgent concerns

The author is the World Food Program’s Türkiye Director and Representative.

ISTANBUL

As the world struggles with mounting global challenges, food security has emerged as one of the most pressing issues of our time—transcending borders and demanding collective action. Despite the efforts, global food insecurity remains alarmingly high. According to our estimates, 343 million people across 74 countries are acutely food insecure, a 10% increase from last year and just shy of the record hit during the pandemic.

Positioned at the crossroads of continents, Türkiye’s strategic location and strong agricultural capacity have established it as a pivotal player in addressing these urgent concerns. From its immediate region to crisis-stricken areas, like Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen, Türkiye has extended its reach, offering vital contributions to alleviate hunger and promote stability. Initiatives such as "Grain from Ukraine" further emphasize Türkiye’s growing influence in global humanitarian efforts, showcasing its commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against food insecurity.

A key transit hub for the flow of grain

"Grain from Ukraine" has become a crucial initiative in addressing global grain supply disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine. Supported by the World Food Program (WFP), this program ensures that Ukrainian grain reaches vulnerable regions, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Türkiye has played a central role in this effort, by facilitating the flow of grain shipments through the Black Sea. Its active participation in the previous Black Sea Grain Initiative has reinforced its position as a mediator and enabler in addressing food security challenges, particularly ensuring access to humanitarian aid.

By ensuring that grain reaches countries in need, Türkiye contributes significantly to stabilizing food prices and combating hunger globally. However, food security is about more than just production; it also depends on availability, accessibility, and sustainability. Acknowledging this, Türkiye has introduced strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of its food systems. Nevertheless, challenges like supply chain disruptions and aligning policies with international standards continue to present opportunities for improvement.

WFP procured over $500M worth of food, services from Türkiye

This strategic role is further exemplified by Türkiye's partnership with global organizations like WFP. Over the past two years, WFP has procured over $500 million worth of food and services from Türkiye, placing it among the top contributors to global food aid operations. This partnership has ensured the efficient distribution of food to vulnerable regions, including Gaza and Sudan, and highlights the importance of Türkiye’s role in global humanitarian logistics. This is especially true today, given the recent ceasefire in Gaza and the opportunity it presents to move food quickly into the region.

Additionally, Türkiye's support extends to Syria, where the ongoing crisis continues to affect millions. Just before the new year, WFP facilitated the delivery of over 300 metric tons of "Grain from Ukraine" wheat flour from Türkiye to Syria. In the coming days, an additional 3,500 metric tons is expected to arrive, providing vital assistance to thousands of families in need.

Worldwide humanitarian efforts

Despite the ceasefire, Gaza continues to face severe food insecurity as a result of destroyed infrastructure and economic collapse, leaving much of its population dependent on aid. Türkiye has been a steadfast partner in providing food assistance to Gaza, demonstrating solidarity through initiatives led by organizations like the Turkish Red Crescent and the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

Recent efforts have included the delivery of thousands of tons of food packages, baby supplies, and essential items through initiatives such as the “İyilik Gemisi” (Goodness Ship). Türkiye’s pledge to meet Gaza’s entire flour needs for 2025, amounting to 120,000 tons further emphasizes its long-term commitment to the region. Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Ensuring that aid reaches those most in need requires detailed coordination and advocacy for sustained humanitarian corridors.

Beyond its contributions to food security, Türkiye has also played a pivotal role in fostering peace and stability in conflict-affected regions. The Turkish-mediated peace agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia stands as a testament to its commitment to humanitarian diplomacy.

Türkiye’s contributions to food security, from addressing domestic needs to engaging in global initiatives, reflect its significant potential in advancing humanitarian values and international solidarity. By supporting regions like Gaza, Sudan, and Syria, Türkiye has alleviated suffering and contributed to broader global food security goals. However, the path forward requires acknowledging and addressing the challenges essential in these efforts. Continued collaboration, innovation, and a focus on humanitarian diplomacy will be vital to ensure that Türkiye’s role remains impactful and sustainable in an increasingly complex global landscape.

*Opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Anadolu's editorial policy.